CREDIT REPORTS: A credit report is a record of your credit history with everyone you've done business with. Official credit bureaus (e.g., Equifax) collect your payment information from merchants, lenders and landlords, and then sell the report to businesses so they can decide whether you to extend you credit. The statement also includes your current and previous addresses, your current and previous employers, social security number, telephone number and your birth date.
GET YOUR REPORT: According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, every consumer has access to their credit history. You can order a copy of your report from three national agencies for a small fee: Equifax 1-800-685-1111, Experian 1-800-311-4769 and Trans Union 1-800-888-4213. Of course, these companies make mistakes, so check your credit report carefully. To dispute a listing, you can call any of the above credit bureaus. However, be warned: Each time you call to dispute information on your statement, your inquiry is recorded and listed on your credit history!
CREDIT REPORTS: A credit report is a record of your credit history with everyone you've done business with. Official credit bureaus (e.g., Equifax) collect your payment information from merchants, lenders and landlords, and then sell the report to businesses so they can decide whether you to extend you credit. The statement also includes your current and previous addresses, your current and previous employers, social security number, telephone number and your birth date.
